Teddy Bear Artist

Sleepy Hollow Bears by Anja McGowan

I live in Brampton, Ontario with my husband, Herb, our dog, Emily, and our three cats, Zoe, Kaylee and Sidney, and also my hug of bears that create a warm and whimsical ambience to our home. I have been making bears since 1996. Sewing and crafts have always been a part of my life (thanks to my mother) but teddy bears have become a passion. I am also a truly addicted collector.

My teddy bears are first and foremost made with love and care. Detail is important to each creation and cannot be rushed. Most of my bears are one-of-a-kind or small limited editions. They are made from imported German mohair, some vintage fabrics as well. They see with imported glass eyes, are fully jointed, poly/pellet stuffed (very huggable and cuddly) and range between 9 and 25 inches tall. My teddy bears are rarely dressed (!) but have a ribbon or adornment around their necks. Sleepy Hollow Bears are mostly traditional creations with nice round tummies and tush and a hump on their back. My trademark on each and every bear is an antique gold bear button sewn on the inside right ankle.

Naming of the bears is where my husband (my number 1 supporter) contributes. He looks at a finished bruin and comes up with some unique and special names.

It brings me great joy to see pieces of mohair come to life—there is so much happiness to be found in teddy bears. Bear hugs go a long way—there is nothing like a "warm fuzzy"!

SLEEPY HOLLOW BEARS look forward to many happy years of bear making and meeting more teddy bear lovers. Please feel free to contact me by phone or e-mail and be sure to visit my web site.